Island County sheriff apologizes for inmate’s death from dehydration, malnutrition

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Island County sheriff apologizes for inmate’s death from dehydration, malnutrition

COUPEVILLE, Wash. (AP) — The sheriff of Island County has apologized for a jail inmate’s “tragic death” from dehydration and malnutrition in April, saying it resulted from a “systematic breakdown” of jail operations.

The Daily Herald of Everett reports (http://is.gd/hTsqFp ) that Island County Sheriff Mark Brown on Thursday released a report in the case of 25-year-old Keaton Farris, found dead April 8 in his cell.

The report showed the water had been shut off to Farris’ cell after he put his pillow in the toilet and later flooded his cell. An investigation timeline said the water was to be turned on only at meal times.

Brown says he has suspended the jail’s chief deputy for 30 days without pay and placed a lieutenant on leave. Two corrections deputies have resigned since being put on leave after the death.

Farris had been arrested for failure to make a court appearance on an identity theft charge.